Every country has its own set of customs laws to make the import-export process safe and secure. Strict customs clearance is an indicator of national security concerns and is beneficial for the citizens of the country. But one side effect of stricter customs clearance is that it affects the ease of doing international business.
Import-export laws should be able to protect the nation from illegal and hazardous transactions, but, at the same time, it should not become a hindrance to doing business across the border. But alas, that is not the case in the US. This is when the need for an experienced firm like Clearit USA customs brokerage arises. With the help of advanced brokerage firms, getting your cargo into US soil can be a breeze.
What are the major steps in getting your customs clearance through a broker?
Firstly, you should create an account with the customs broker, which is usually free of cost.
- Once the account has been successfully created, submit a Power of Attorney in the broker’s name. This will enable them to act on your behalf regarding the import-export of your goods.
- After this, all the relevant documents have to be submitted. Companies like Clearit USA offer the convenience of filling the documents online.
- If you do not have all the required documents, then your broker will help you acquire them and then submit them.
Now, your agent will start processing the data one by one and prepare all the documents. They will ensure that no paperwork is left and all your documents are ready at the time of import/export. All your billing, clearance documents, tax filings, and other related paperwork will be cleared this time.
Further, your customs declaration is created and submitted to the US Customs for clearance. This is the most important step in the process. All your data and documents related to export/import will be sent via a secure Electronic Data Interchange.
You will be guided along to make the payments and settle the bills. All the customs duties and import/export taxes will be settled at this stage. Brokerage, freight and warehouse charges and all other payments can be made through your broker if you want.
Finally, the release of your goods after all the documents have been checked and cleared by the Customs and the payments received and settled. If your cargo needs to be delivered inland in the US, then that too can be arranged by your broker.
In short, hiring an experienced customs broker can not only save you a lot of hectic paperwork but also time and money.
